It’s always a bit of a challenge to review a book that’s very much part of a series – and maybe that’s as good a place as any to start. I wouldn’t recommend picking this one up as a standalone – I think the cast of characters would be quite difficult to grasp, it begins from the point that the last book ended, and it really would be best to have some understanding of the world the book is set in. The author is quite clear that the series “should be read in order for your best reading experience”, and I’d certainly agree – or at least, do read the previous book, Will of the Witch, first. And I’ll share too that this book does end on rather a cliffhanger – but that only made me immediately preorder the next book, because I thought this one was simply wonderful.
And because it’s very much an instalment in a continuing story, I need to avoid telling too much of the story too – but I’m incredibly impressed by the way the author wholly successfully draws together romance, humour, drama, mysticism, history, and myth and legend. And she then includes a large helping of magic – and the world she creates is one I entirely believed in. The characterisation is so excellent – poor Lowen entirely out of his depth with the new role he needs to assume, Harley and Killian’s mutual attraction with all its many barriers, and a wonderfully quirky and unusual wider cast of characters (yes, even a leprechaun, and a few ancient gods who all play their part in the story).
I’m not well versed in Arthurian legend, but I found the supporting detail – there must have been some pretty intensive research needed – simply fascinating, and beautifully woven into the fabric of this tale of present day magic. The whole history of the enmity between the fae and the witches is deliciously convoluted – it might be the product of the author’s imagination (well, I think it is!) but it certainly captured mine too. The various locations in this book are wonderful too – a return to Castle Clair (which delighted me) and to the Cornish island, but Ballydraiocht in Ireland too for an encounter with the legendary and powerful O’Briens. And there’s an unexpected – by everyone – visit to Glastonbury, together with a distinctly otherworldly experience that had me on the edge of my seat.
If romance is what you enjoy, there’s plenty here to make you happy – Keely coming to terms with the fact that her partner is rather more than the family solicitor she fell for, and Harley and Killian battling against the odds to have their happy ending. And I know I’ve already mentioned the humour, but the author’s really excelled herself with this one – there are all the usual family shenanigans (their exchanges are just wonderful…) with the usual suspects behaving badly, but wait until you encounter the new familiars! And the drama’s so well wrought too – and on a considerable scale, with far greater potential consequences than any squabble within the council of witches.
There is a conclusion – and a particularly satisfying one – to some of the story’s threads, and I thoroughly enjoyed the way that was handled. But the ending is very much “to be continued”, with a few intriguing clues to the story that might unfold, along with its key players – and I’m so caught up in the story that I’m not sure how I can wait until October. The author’s imagination and creativity are stunning – but so is her unique style of storytelling. I really loved this book, and recommend it really highly – and you do have time to catch up on the full story before that long-awaited conclusion!
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There are 6 books in this series.
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Top reviews from other countries
- Welsh AnnieReviewed in the United Kingdom on February 8, 2023
Stunningly imaginative - and wonderful storytelling...
- Lady RochfordReviewed in the United Kingdom on March 24, 2023
I was most certainly bewitched reading it
- Liz BerryReviewed in the United Kingdom on January 28, 2023
Another great Sharon Booth tale!
